Coaxial Cable (COAX) is a type of copper-based electrical cable designed for the reliable transmission of radio frequency (RF) signals. It consists of four main components: a central copper conductor that carries the signal, a dielectric insulator that surrounds the conductor to maintain signal integrity, a braided or solid metal shield that blocks external electromagnetic interference (EMI), and an outer plastic jacket for physical protection. The term “coaxial” refers to the shared axis of the conductor and shield, which work together to maintain consistent impedance and signal quality.
Originally developed in the early 20th century, COAX has been widely used in applications such as cable television (CATV), broadband internet, telephone trunk lines, and security camera networks. While fiber optics and Ethernet have become more common in newer deployments, COAX remains prevalent in many commercial and legacy infrastructure settings due to its durability, ease of installation, and compatibility with existing systems. In small to mid-sized businesses—especially those in multi-location or franchise environments—COAX may still play a role in delivering last-mile internet access or serving as a cost-effective backup connection in hybrid network solutions.
How Coaxial Cable Works
Coaxial cable transmits high-frequency electrical signals with minimal interference by using a multi-layered design. Each layer plays a specific role in maintaining signal integrity from point A to point B.
Key Components and How They Function:
- Central Conductor: Carries the actual data signals in the form of alternating current (AC).
- Dielectric Insulator: Separates the conductor from the shield and helps maintain consistent impedance, reducing signal loss.
- Metallic Shield (Braided or Solid): Blocks external electromagnetic interference (EMI) and prevents the signal from leaking out.
- Outer Jacket: Protects internal layers from moisture, wear, and physical damage.
How It All Works Together:
- The central conductor transmits the signal efficiently across long distances.
- The insulation maintains spacing for consistent signal strength and prevents short-circuiting.
- The shield acts as a ground and defense against outside interference.
- The design supports high-frequency transmission with minimal signal degradation.
This layered structure enables coaxial cables to deliver reliable, interference-resistant connectivity—ideal for voice, video, and broadband data in business networks.
Common Types of Coaxial Cable
Coaxial cables come in several varieties, each tailored for different applications based on signal frequency, distance, and installation environment.
RG-6
- Use Case: Cable TV, broadband internet, satellite
- Features: Thicker insulation and better shielding than older types
- Why It Matters: Supports higher frequencies; common in both residential and commercial buildings
RG-59
- Use Case: CCTV systems, low-frequency video transmission
- Features: Thinner than RG-6, less shielding
- Why It Matters: Suitable for short runs and analog video setups
RG-11
- Use Case: Long cable runs for broadband or TV signals
- Features: Thicker core, lower signal loss over distance
- Why It Matters: Used in larger facilities or outdoor setups needing signal over 100+ feet
Hardline Coaxial Cable
- Use Case: Professional broadcast, telecom infrastructure
- Features: Rigid construction with solid copper or aluminum shielding
- Why It Matters: High durability and signal quality; ideal for high-power applications
Triaxial Cable (Triax)
- Use Case: Broadcast cameras, secure communications
- Features: Extra shield layer for added interference protection
- Why It Matters: Offers enhanced isolation for sensitive video/audio signals
Twin-axial Cable (Twinax)
- Use Case: Data centers, short-distance high-speed networking
- Features: Two inner conductors instead of one
- Why It Matters: Reduces crosstalk in high-speed digital environments like 10G Ethernet
For multi-location or franchise operations, RG-6 is typically the most cost-effective and compatible choice for broadband services unless longer distances or specialty use cases require an upgrade.
Advantages of Coax Cable
Coax remains a valuable option for businesses that don’t require the highest data speeds but still need dependable service—especially in industries like retail, food services, or distributed franchise models.
- Strong Resistance to Interference
- Coaxial cable’s shielding minimizes electromagnetic interference (EMI) from nearby devices.
- Delivers consistent performance even in noisy environments like server rooms or retail spaces.
- Reliable Signal Over Distance
- Coax can carry signals over longer distances than twisted pair cables without significant loss.
- Ideal for facilities where endpoints are spread out—such as warehouses or multi-room offices.
- Easy to Install and Maintain
- Common connectors (e.g., F-type) and flexible cabling make coax simple to install.
- Easily integrated with existing infrastructure, especially in legacy buildings.
- Widely Supported
- Compatible with most cable modems, routers, and TV/video equipment.
- Supported by most ISPs and telecom providers, especially for last-mile broadband delivery.
- Cost-Effective
- Lower installation and equipment costs compared to fiber, especially for smaller deployments.
- A practical solution for businesses needing basic broadband or backup connectivity.
- Durable Construction
- The layered design offers good physical protection against wear and damage.
- Useful in environments like manufacturing floors or outdoor kiosks.
Limitations of Coaxial Cable
While coax can be a practical short-term or backup solution, businesses with growing digital needs or multiple cloud-based tools should consider transitioning to fiber or hybrid networks for future scalability.
- Lower Bandwidth Compared to Fiber
- Coax supports broadband, but not at the same speed or capacity as fiber-optic cables.
- Can become a bottleneck for businesses with high data or video streaming needs.
- Signal Degradation Over Long Distances
- Signal quality drops the longer the cable run, especially without amplifiers or boosters.
- Less effective in large office campuses or dispersed buildings.
- Bulky and Less Flexible
- Thicker than Ethernet cables, making it harder to manage in tight or complex installations.
- Less suitable for dense IT environments or modern data centers.
- Asymmetric Speeds
- Most coax-based internet services offer higher download than upload speeds.
- Limits performance for cloud backups, VoIP, and video conferencing where uploads matter.
- Susceptible to Shared Bandwidth
- In cable internet setups, bandwidth may be shared with nearby users.
- Can lead to performance dips during peak usage hours.
- Aging Infrastructure
- Many coax installations are part of older systems and may require upgrades to stay compliant or reliable.
- May not support the latest network technologies or performance standards.